3/17/2010
CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Gov. Joe Manchin today sent a letter to President Obama requesting a federal disaster declaration that would help southern West Virginia residents hit hard by flooding caused snowmelt and heavy rain late last week. Last week’s flooding caused severe damage to both private and public property in Fayette, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Mercer, Raleigh and Summers counties.
The governor toured flood-damaged areas along swollen riverbanks on March 13. “Along with our National Guard and emergency services officials, I saw firsthand the extensive damage caused by the melting snow and the heavy rain,” Manchin said. “I also met with our brave first responders who continue to help our citizens and search diligently for Donnie Adkins, our missing Glasgow firefighter.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Adkins family and the rescuers who are working so hard to find him,” the governor said.
“Our state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and a number of state and local agencies have worked quickly to complete this disaster request. “I appreciate everyone working together and expediently on this declaration, which will allow our citizens receive the aid that is needed as soon as possible,” Manchin said. “I also want to thank all the volunteers and citizens who are pitching in with assistance and donations to help those affected by the floods.”
The counties in the official request as of today are Fayette, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Mercer, Raleigh and Summers, however, as damage assessments continue, the governor can request other counties be added to the declaration.
Contact Information
Jimmy Gianato
304-558-5380